Rescuing Kentucky’s Animals with Compassion
Saving Paws Animal Rescue of Kentucky, a 501c3, non-profit organization based in Owensboro, Kentucky. We are dedicated to lowering euthanasia rates of cats & dogs in area shelters, educating the public about the importance of spaying and neutering, and promoting animal adoption in Kentucky. SparKy aspires to foster lifelong connections between foster animals and families, and place them in successful, nurturing homes. Through support, guidance, education and service, our grassroots organization commits to create a positive, sustainable impact within the community and beyond.
Rescue | Foster | Adopt
Meet the compassionate individuals driving our mission forward.
Saving Paws Animal Rescue of Kentucky was founded by John and Bridget Austin, whose shared compassion for animals is the heartbeat of the organization. John leads as President, guiding the mission and vision, while Bridget oversees the daily operations that ensure every animal receives the care, comfort, and second chance they deserve. Together, they’ve built a rescue rooted in dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment to the pets and people of our community.
Heartwarming Rescue Stories from Our Community
Learn about our rescue process, from saving animals to finding their forever homes with compassion and care.
Making a Difference Through Dedicated Animal Rescue
A Sheltered Start for the Most Vulnerable
Through our Sheltered Start Program, we’re committed to giving kittens and puppies the strongest beginning possible. Our work focuses on spaying and neutering to prevent unwanted litters, providing round‑the‑clock care for orphaned or fragile babies, and ensuring every young animal grows up healthy, socialized, and ready for a loving home.
From bottle‑feeding newborns to guiding growing pups and kittens through their first milestones, our team pours compassion and expertise into every life we touch. By combining responsible pet care education with hands‑on rescue, we’re building a kinder future—one tiny paw at a time.
How Compassion Drives Life-Saving Outcomes
At SparKy, compassion isn’t just a value—it’s the force that transforms medical crises into second chances. From repairing broken bones and removing painful tumors to performing life‑saving amputations and treating critical illnesses, our team steps in when animals need us most. Every procedure, every recovery plan, and every gentle touch reflects our belief that every life is worth fighting for. Through skilled veterinary care and unwavering dedication, we help pets move from suffering to healing, and ultimately, to the loving homes they deserve.